March 9th

March 9, 2023
Thursday of the 2 nd Week of Advent
Chloe Grissam: Freshman
Reading: Jer 17:5-10/Lk 16:19-31 (233)

Reflection: Jeremiah, verses 5-10

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose hope is the LORD.
He is like a tree planted beside the waters
that stretches out its roots to the stream:
It fears not the heat when it comes,
its leaves stay green;
In the year of drought it shows no distress,
but still bears fruit.
More tortuous than all else is the human heart,
beyond remedy; who can understand it?
I, the LORD, alone probe the mind
and test the heart,”
This passage from the book of the prophet Jeremiah can be interpreted in a lot of
different ways. But what I would like to compare it to is our faith being tested, and
the difference between giving up and giving oneself to God. God tends to test us in
many ways, but it is for all the right reasons.
Being tested is a type of biblical design pattern. When God gives us struggles,
trials, and tribulations you have to persevere. Your faith is being tested because
God is asking you to give yourself up. Sacrifice yourself for your faith even.
Jeremiah verses 5-10 show us that obedience, trust, and wisdom do not lead to
outward success or prosperity. The passage from Jeremiah supports or hints at the
idea that life does not work out so simply. The passage acknowledges that drought
and heat will come, but it is NOTHING we can’t handle. Those who trust God and
his plan will survive and bear fruit despite the poor conditions.
During Lent, as we better ourselves for God, we are challenged to give ourselves
up as well. Cast away all anxieties you might have and trust what God has in store
for you.